Baku: President Ilham Aliyev announced the commencement of significant infrastructure projects aimed at connecting Azerbaijan with the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The projects include the construction of a railroad and highways leading toward the Armenian border. This development is set to address the current logistical challenges faced by Azerbaijani citizens traveling to Nakhchivan.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev, in an interview with Al Arabiya TV channel, highlighted the inconvenience faced by travelers who currently have to either fly or take lengthy routes through neighboring countries like Iran, Georgia, and Turkey to reach Nakhchivan. The new infrastructure is expected to streamline travel and enhance connectivity.

In reflecting on the aftermath of the Second Karabakh War, President Aliyev noted that while Azerbaijan had the opportunity to seize certain territories by force, the country chose negotiation over aggression. He emphasized the importance of diplomatic discussions with Armenia regarding the connectivity lines and underscored the progress made on the railroad and highway projects. Aliyev projected that these projects would be completed by the following year, significantly easing travel restrictions and fostering regional integration.